Public invited to have coffee with a cop

In yet another way to reach out to the community, the Ridgecrest Police Department is inviting anyone interested to enjoy “Coffee with a Cop” from 9-11 a.m. on Friday at Beanster’s Espresso.

By Mike BodineNEWS WRITER

In yet another way to reach out to the community, the Ridgecrest Police Department is inviting anyone interested to enjoy “Coffee with a Cop” from 9-11 a.m. on Friday at Beanster’s Espresso. Police Chief Ron Strand said, from his office on Wednesday, that the event is an informal and intimate way for the public to ask questions, voice concerns or just introduce themselves to the officers who serve them. The caffeinated event is in the same vain as Safe Communities open forums, as well as the PD's annual Open House where the public is encouraged to speak and become engaged.The community outreach is part of Strand's recent strategy of fighting crime that includes reacting quickly to larger and more violent crimes and bringing those perpetrators to justice. Strand explained that some crimes can be easily prevented with a little help from the public, like locking car and house doors. Strand added that the PD has been utilizing Facebook and social media to advertise wanted criminals or to ask for help when looking for details to a particular crime.Strand explained that he most recently posted a “Top 10 Tips for crimes in progress” courtesy of the Orange County Sheriff's Department Blog that can help the public better help and report crimes. Strand explained that when a community is safe, it feels safe to report crimes, even if perpetrated by neighbors.